We always use the HOV lanes through Atlanta. I always hear about the traffic but think "just hop in the HOV lane and cruise on by" -- it's not like we are exiting anywhere there, we are just passing through. I have never found the traffic all that bad but I think it's all what you are used to.
I personally find I-24 in TN my worst nightmare with merging & exits on both the right & left side but I-75 with the HOV lanes are a breeze.
I'm not pulling anything though.
We have 6 people in the car, so I will be good to go no matter if it's 2+ or 3+.
This year should be interesting for us as the timing will be all different since we are doing a college visit too.